Causes: Protestant, Religion

Mission: The Mission of Lazarus Ministries at Grand Avenue Temple is to provide an experience of God’s love through a worshiping congregation that seeks to meet the needs of Kansas City’s urban core.

Results: For three centuries, Grand Avenue Temple ministered to the needs of the downtown community in Kansas City as it changed from a prosperous and busy commercial district to a neighborhood abandoned by both businesses and residents. In 1995 the congregation began meal service to the homeless serving 10,000 meals that first year. Over the past 15 years the services provided have grown significantly, going beyond providing food. Today, Lazarus Ministries’ services include a clothing boutique; free clinic staffed by UMKC Medical Students; library; drop-in center; and women’s emergency overflow shelter, open during the coldest months of the year when area shelters are overflowing and turning people away. As the needs of our community have grown, so has our vision: in 2009 Lazarus Ministries became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to better position the organization to continue expanding the programs serving the community. While the organization remains closely tied to the church and continues to function with support from the faith based community, the nonprofit status allows opportunities for growth, which a church would never have been able to provide alone.

Target demographics: Homeless and low income individuals and families living in Kansas City's Urban Core.

Direct beneficiaries per year: Over 30,000

Programs: Medical Clinic, Women's Shelter, Community Meals, Library, Clothing Boutique.